Researchers at IIT Madras have discovered a connection between a specific tissue-remodelling enzyme dubbed MMP7 and risk of hypertension in the heart.?
To the uninitiated, hypertension is commonly known as high blood pressure -- heart disease that occurs due to the remodelling of heart tissues.?
As per IIT Madras researchers, (reported first by IANS), Matrix Metalloproteinases or MMPs are mainly responsible for such remodelling of the heart that results in hypertension. This causes changes structurally and mechanically to push blood into the blood vessels. Which in turn results in elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases.
MMPs have also been associated with the degradation of extracellular matrix proteins, during regular tissue growth. They help in injury-like situations such as wound healing, tissue repair etc.
MMP7 enzyme is known to elevate in cases of hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and even diabetes mellitus. Previous studies have revealed that eliminating MMP7 gene can reduce hypertension in rats.
However, researchers have still not been able to find a clear connection of the MMP7 gene and hypertension, until now.
A research team studied the association of MMP7 gene promoter with hypertension in people residing in North and South of India.
The study revealed that change in the regulatory region of MMP7gene revealed a strong association with hypertension risk.?
The team also separated the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the increased blood MMP7 revels in the carriers of this genetic variation.
According to study researcher, Professor Nitish Mahapatra, IIT Madras, "This study helps us better understand the role of variations and functional regulatory changes in MMP7 gene promoter in increasing risk of cardiovascular disease among individuals."
He further added, "This understanding will help us embark on preventive strategies for individuals carrying the variation that could lead to hypertension and related cardiovascular complications."